Business Details
29 Years
experience
Trusted Construction & Restoration Experts in Devon
Established in 1997, Character Builders is a family-run construction firm based on the edge of Dartmoor National Park. Led by four brothers with specialist expertise in building, joinery, and decoration, the company focuses on period property maintenance, barn conversions, and restoration projects. Our approach integrates modern and traditional techniques while prioritising sustainable materials. We collaborate with specialist craftsmen to ensure high standards of workmanship across projects ranging from cottage renovations to church restorations.With awards including the Federation of Master Builders' Builder of the Year, we combine technical skill with a commitment to environmental responsibility and client satisfaction. Our team maintains strong local ties, supporting community initiatives and demonstrating traditional building methods at regional events.
Services
Building restoration
Joinery services
Period property maintenance
Barn conversions
Stone masonry
Cob work
Timber framing
Decorative finishes
Sustainable construction
Project management
Details
- Year established: 1997
Highlights and features
- We have over 25 years of experience in historic building restoration
- Our team combines traditional craftsmanship with modern techniques
- We prioritise sustainable materials and environmental responsibility
- Award-winning work recognised by the Federation of Master Builders
- We maintain strong local community partnerships and industry collaborations
Associations and certifications
- Federation of Master Builders
What people say
High standard of workmanship
Accommodating and adaptable team
Professional and thorough estimates
Exemplary attention to detail
Strong environmental commitment
Services
Building restoration
Specialising in historic structures, we restore period properties using traditional techniques combined with modern methodologies. Our team handles stone masonry, cob work, and timber framing while maintaining original architectural integrity. Projects include complete overhauls of derelict buildings and sensitive repairs to listed structures.
Barn conversions
Transforming agricultural buildings into functional spaces while preserving their historical character. We manage full conversions from initial design to final finishes, ensuring compliance with conservation regulations and integrating sustainable materials throughout the process.
Joinery services
Custom joinery solutions for both traditional and contemporary properties. Our craftsmen create bespoke windows, doors, and interior features using sustainably sourced materials, combining precision engineering with artisanal techniques passed through generations.
Stone masonry
Expert stone carving and masonry services for restoration and new builds. Our specialists work with local materials to recreate historical details while ensuring structural integrity, including intricate features like decorative stonework and load-bearing elements.
Project management
Comprehensive oversight of complex building projects from inception to completion. We coordinate specialist subcontractors, maintain strict timelines, and ensure seamless communication between clients and craftsmen while upholding quality standards throughout the process.
People
Tom Diffey
Managing Director
With 16 years' local experience, Tom oversees client relations and project coordination. His expertise in roofing and carpentry complements his commitment to sustainable building practices and attention to detail.
Matt Diffey
Master Mason
Former apprentice to renowned sculptor Peter Randall-Page, Matt specialises in stone carving and masonry. His European experience enhances our restoration projects with authentic traditional techniques and artistic precision.
Sam Diffey
Project Manager
Specialist in cob work and stone masonry, Sam leads site operations and apprenticeship training. His meticulous approach ensures exceptional internal finishes and adherence to historical accuracy in all restoration projects.
Simeon Diffey
Project Coordinator
Recent graduate in Historical Building Conservation, Simeon combines academic expertise with practical experience. He manages payroll operations and contributes fresh perspectives on heritage conservation practices to our team.
Questions
What types of building projects do you specialise in?
We specialise in period property restoration, barn conversions, and heritage building work, including churches, cottages, and timber-framed structures across Devon.
How do you combine traditional and modern techniques?
We integrate traditional craftsmanship like cob work and stone masonry with modern methods such as ground source heat pump installations while maintaining historical integrity.
Are you experienced with listed buildings?
Yes, our team has extensive experience working on listed properties, ensuring all renovations comply with conservation regulations and preserve architectural heritage.
Do you work with sustainable materials?
We prioritise sustainable materials in all projects, including locally sourced timber and lime-based products, to minimise environmental impact while maintaining authenticity.
What awards have you won?
We've won the Federation of Master Builders' Builder of the Year award twice, recognising excellence in both small renovations and large-scale restoration projects.
How do you manage project timelines?
We provide detailed schedules at project inception and maintain strict timelines through experienced coordination of our craftsmen and subcontractors across all developments.
